Router N00b has some questions

[Aceldamor]

Hey guys,

I'm getting close to starting to actually cut wood and had a question or two on routers. I see regular and plunge. I've seen people use both regular and plunge.

I'm assuming the strength of plunge is that you can do just as advertised and "plunge" down into the wood for things like designs, speaker grills, etc. If you don't need to plunge and just want to run an edge for template copy or t-molding, can you lock the plunge into position? Again, on assumption, I would think you could, but this may be the difference on the purchase for me if you can't.

Thanks,
Ace

[wp34]

Yes you can lock the plunge. You can also get a kit that has both plunge and fixed bases.

[Aceldamor]

Thanks mate!!

[vfecde]

If you invision using a router more than just for the single build and dont mind spending the money, many people will probably recommend the Bosch 1617EVSPK. Can be found around 100-150$ and will last you a long time. I have been using this router set for a while and it is very nice.

[wcndave]

Plunge routers are more flexible. Fixed base have a lower centre of gravity and so are easier to work with. Unless you're going to get into woodworking and have a few, go for plunge.

Read up on how to use them, most important thing is to go the right direction, otherwise you can really mess stuff up.

Sent from my GT-I9301I using Tapatalk

[vwalbridge]

Yes you can lock the plunge. You can also get a kit that has both plunge and fixed bases.

+1

Both the DeWalt Combo Kit and the Bosch Combo Kit come highly rated.

And if you really want to get fancy, you can get the Bosch Router Table attachment. 

(I've got an old fixed-based Sears router that is getting a little long in the teeth so I've been eyeballin' that DeWalt kit for a long time)

[wp34]

Yes you can lock the plunge. You can also get a kit that has both plunge and fixed bases.

+1

Both the DeWalt Combo Kit and the Bosch Combo Kit come highly rated.

And if you really want to get fancy, you can get the Bosch Router Table attachment. 

(I've got an old fixed-based Sears router that is getting a little long in the teeth so I've been eyeballin' that DeWalt kit for a long time)

I've got both of those router kits because I have a tool problem.   

[vwalbridge]

Yes you can lock the plunge. You can also get a kit that has both plunge and fixed bases.

+1

Both the DeWalt Combo Kit and the Bosch Combo Kit come highly rated.

And if you really want to get fancy, you can get the Bosch Router Table attachment. 

(I've got an old fixed-based Sears router that is getting a little long in the teeth so I've been eyeballin' that DeWalt kit for a long time)

I've got both of those router kits because I have a tool problem.   

NICE! lucky!

...and one can never own too many tools. 

[wp34]

...and one can never own too many tools. 

Quoted for truth.   

[vwalbridge]

I've got both of those router kits because I have a tool problem.   

May I ask which one you prefer over the other?

(I'm normally a DeWalt guy myself but I'd love to know your thoughts)

[wp34]

I much prefer the Dewalt although the Bosch has worked great for me.  I just checked though and my model is slightly different.

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DWP611PK-Torque-Variable-Compact/dp/B0049ZFUK2/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1446671234&sr=1-2&keywords=dewalt+router

The reason prefer this one over the Bosch is mainly size.  My Dewalt will only take a 1/4 collet though which is sometimes limiting.  The one you linked two handles both 1/4 and 1/2 bits.

[vwalbridge]

I much prefer the Dewalt although the Bosch has worked great for me.  I just checked though and my model is slightly different.

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DWP611PK-Torque-Variable-Compact/dp/B0049ZFUK2/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1446671234&sr=1-2&keywords=dewalt+router

The reason prefer this one over the Bosch is mainly size.  My Dewalt will only take a 1/4 collet though which is sometimes limiting.  The one you linked two handles both 1/4 and 1/2 bits.

Thank You. DeWalt it is then. Appreciate it! 

[BorgDog]

I have 2 of the Porter Cable 1 3/4 HP, got the kit with fixed and plunge base, then another with just a fixed base.  One is permanently mounted in the router table, the other for whatever.  Been very happy with them.  When i bought the first set 15 or so years ago it was between that and the DeWalt, would have been happy with either, someone had a great sale on the PC so I ended up with them.

http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00006411C/

[Aceldamor]

Wow..thanks for all the info fellas! Lots of good info and product links..

You guys are the shiz! 

[lordjackenstein]

You are going to want a regular router, usually these come with plunge attachments.

[RetroArcadePro]

I have the Bosch router with fixed and plunge bases. The fixed stays attached in the router table. I also have a rigid laminate trimmer. The smaller size of a laminate trimmer makes it very useful for doing edge work so as cutting a t molding slot.